ARINDAM GANGULY, OP
Bhubaneswar: Amid Bhubaneswar’s vibrant Durga Puja celebrations, with over 172 pandals across the City, a growning cultural trend is drawing attention — the obsession with selfies.
While the grandeur of the decorated pandals and the spiritual fervour draw thousands of devotees, an increasing number of visitors are more focused on capturing the perfect photo than seeking the goddess’s blessings. The practice, though seemingly harmless, is raising eyebrows among heritage experts, sociologists, and even pandal organisers. “Selfies are a modern trend and part of everyday life now,” said Taranisen Patnaik, a City heritage expert. “But inside pandals, especially near the Maa Durga idols, this should be restricted. It disrupts the sanctity of the puja, interferes with rituals, and often troubles other devotees who come with devotion.” The concern is echoed by Meena Rath, a sociologist, who believes the selfie craze reflects a deeper societal shift. “Selfies during festivals are a new way of engaging with culture, but they also reveal our growing need for digital validation. When it begins to interfere with religious rituals or public movement, it becomes more about self-centeredness than celebration.”
However, not everyone agrees. “I dress up for the occasion, and taking a selfie at the pandal is my way of preserving the moment,” said Shruti Nayak, a college student. “It doesn’t mean I’m disrespectful — I just want to share my joy with friends online.” Akhil Das, a local photographer, adds another perspective. “These selfies promote the art and effort behind the beautiful pandals. They help spread awareness and attract more visitors.” Caught between devotion and digital expression, puja organisers are treading a delicate line. “We can’t ban selfies altogether,” said Nabakishore Behera, an organiser from the popular Nayapalli Durga Puja Committee. “It’s true that people taking selfies disrupt the lines and sometimes the rituals. But banning them is not an easy decision — we need consensus from all stakeholders. We are considering ways to manage this better.”
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Some pandals have even introduced ‘selfie zones’, designated areas where visitors can take photos without disturbing the rituals or the crowd flow. Organisers hope this will strike a balance between tradition and modern trends. As Bhubaneswar continues to celebrate Durga Puja with grandeur, the debate between devotion and digital obsession remains very much alive — reflecting the changing face of culture in a smartphone-driven world.
